"Stormwater management has caused significant problems throughout Evanston’s history.  Most of Evanston was originally marshy, and parts of current developed areas were underwater part of the year.  Construction of drainage ditches in the 1800’s allowed the land to be reclaimed for development.  However, stormwater continues to create challenges.

The Evanston Stormwater Control Ordinance requires that all new developments and certain larger redevelopments must retain stormwater on the property, either through storage or through green infrastructure and then infiltrate it back into the ground or limit the rate of release into the sewer system.”

Storm Water Control Ordinance